Apple users are more inclined to pick the latest Apple Watch to accompany their iPhone, but where does that leave Android users who want a smartwatch? Thankfully, many devices use Google’s wearOS operating system, based on Android. This makes it much easier to pair with devices and synchronize data.
Also helpful: comparing Fitbit to Apple Watch? Learn which option is best between these two front runners.
1. Best for Samsung Owners: Samsung Galaxy Watch 5
Price: $249
If you already use a Samsung smartphone, the Galaxy Watch 5 is the perfect accessory, as it automatically syncs all your activities. It’s available in five band colors, three face sizes, and two connectivity methods. The Galaxy Watch 5 features Advanced Sleep Coaching, body composition analysis, and a sapphire crystal glass face.
Pros
- Battery lasts several days
- Sapphire crystal glass face is extra durable
- 410mAh battery
- Built-in GPS
- Incorporates Samsung’s curved BioActive Sensor
Cons
- 25-watt power adapter sold separately
- No continuous ECG
Tip: you can use your Samsung Galaxy Watch without a phone, if needed.
2. Best for Pixel Users: Google Pixel Watch
Price: $329
Google’s Pixel Watch seamlessly connects and automatically updates your smartphone’s data. It has a round 41-millimeter face, is available in five different band colors, and you can choose the LTE or Wi-Fi version. It features Fitbit activity tracking, a built-in ECG monitor, and compatibility with Google Wallet.
Pros
- Scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass face
- Water-resistant up to 164 feet
- Battery lasts up to 24 hours
- Able to pair with Pixel Buds
Cons
- Fitbit Premium Free is only accessible for six months
- More expensive than others
- ECG is not available in all countries
Are you on a tight budget? Lean how a cheap smartwatch might be good enough.
3. Best for Luxury: Tag Heuer Connected Calibre E4
Price: $1,900
The Tag Heuer Connected Calibre E4 is the perfect smartwatch to keep track of your workouts while looking incredibly stylish. It has a large 45-millimeter metal dial, rubber strap, and fixed ceramic bezel. The glass on top of the face is made of scratch-resistant sapphire crystal to prevent unsightly scratches. It’s also perfect for swimming, as it is water resistant up to 165 feet.
Pros
- Battery lasts all day
- Looks good and is durable
- Has custom watch faces
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Price puts it out of reach for many
- Some users complain that the heart rate sensor isn’t accurate
Good to know: these Android widgets will make your home screen better.
4. Best for Every Day: TicWatch Pro 5
Price: $349
The TicWatch Pro 5 is a durable and great-looking smartwatch that runs on the latest version of WearOS. Its dual display includes an ultra-low power mode that stretches the battery life to over 80 hours. Perfect for working out, it has over 100 workout modes, a 24-hour heart rate monitor, and a built-in GPS.
Pros
- Water resistant up to 5 atmospheres and open-swim compatible
- Has over 1,000 watch faces
- Rotating crown for quick navigation
- Impressive 628mAh battery
Cons
- Only available in one color
- Doesn’t connect to 5Ghz Wi-Fi connections
5. Best for Style: Fossil Men’s Gen 6
Price: $319
Not everyone wants to wear a smartwatch that looks like a fitness tracker. The Fossil Men’s Gen 6 combines the functionality of a smartwatch with the sleek and beautiful design of a luxury watch. It’s available in several colors, but the Smoke color paired with the chained metal band is the best.
Pros
- Built-in GPS and activity tracker
- Compatible with Android and iOS devices
- Amazon Alexa built-in
- Battery charges up to 80% in only 30 minutes
- 24+ hour battery life
Cons
- Only waterproof up to 100 feet
- iOS users can’t respond to texts on the smartwatch
- Not compatible with the Audible app
Also helpful: Android users who want a Bluetooth tracker have a variety of AirTag alternatives to choose from.
6. Best for Value: Skagen Falster Gen 6
Price: $149
The Skagen Falster Gen 6 is one of the most affordable smartwatches on Google’s wearable operating system, using the Snapdragon Wear 4100+ platform. It has a 42-millimeter display, fast charges to 80% in only 30 minutes, and integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Pros
- Automatically tracks your workouts
- Built-in blood oxygen and heart rate monitor
- Compatible with contactless payments
- Connects to Amazon Alexa
- Waterproof
Cons
- iPhone users can only read text messages and cannot respond to them
- Tricky to find replacement bands
- Some users say the battery life isn’t as good as it could be
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you charge a smartwatch?
That depends on the brand and model, but in most cases, you clip a dedicated charging pad to the back of the watch. Others are powered by wireless chargers.
Are Android smartwatches only compatible with Android phones?
Android smartwatches also work with iOS phones, but there are some limitations. For example, in some cases, iOS users can’t respond to text messages on the watch and must do so from their phones.
Does a smartwatch require an Internet connection?
That depends on the model. Most smartwatches pull data from the mobile phone and use the phone’s Bluetooth connection to connect to the Internet. However, there are watch models that operate without being paired to a mobile phone, as they have a built-in SIM card for a data connection.
Image credit: Pexels
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